Lampglasarbete

Lampglasarbete, often translated as lampworking or flameworking, is a type of glasswork where a torch or lamp is used to melt and shape glass. This technique is distinct from furnace glassblowing, which relies on larger, more intense heat sources. Lampworkers typically work with pre-formed glass rods and tubes, often made of borosilicate or soda-lime glass.

The process involves heating the glass in the flame until it becomes molten and pliable. At this point, the glass can be manipulated using various tools, including pliers, mandrels, and paddles, to create a wide range of objects. Common items produced through lampworking include beads, marbles, small figurines, scientific glassware, and decorative art pieces. The precision achievable with a torch allows for intricate details and fine work.

Lampworking requires a controlled flame, often generated by a propane or natural gas torch mixed with oxygen to achieve higher temperatures. The specific type of glass used is crucial, as different glasses have varying melting points and thermal expansion rates, which affect their suitability for lampworking. Safety is paramount due to the high temperatures and potential for molten glass to splash. Proper ventilation and protective eyewear are essential. The historical roots of lampworking can be traced back centuries, with its development closely tied to advancements in glass production and torch technology.